Day 23: A Little Help

God in His holy dwelling is a father of the fatherless and a champion of widows. (Ps. 68:5)

The image of Ashley and her daughters at the playground after church stayed with me all week. I glanced over and saw her holding baby Bella on her hip, waiting for Ally to come down the slide. “You can do it, honey,” she said. “I’m right here.” Ally shook her head. “No, Mommy,” she said, starting to cry. “It’s too high!”

“What if I come beside you and hold your hand while you slide down?” Sniffling, Ally nodded. Ashley walked over, reached up, and took her daughter’s hand. She tugged gently, and down the little girl went, squealing all the way. “I did it! I did it!” she cried, beaming.

I noticed that Ashley’s shoulders were slumped, and she looked tired. I felt a pang in my heart and wondered if, like her Ally, she needed help too. I didn’t know her well, but I knew that single mothers have a hard life trying to raise their kids while making enough money to get by. I prayed, God, what can I do to help Ashley? Please show me. Soon I had several ideas, including inviting them over for lunch next Sunday.

If you know a single mom, chances are she needs help in some way, whether financially, practically, or emotionally. What can you do to ease her burden, even if just for a little while? You could offer to babysit, help fix things around the house, give coupons or gift cards to stores or kid-friendly restaurants, invite them to Sunday dinner and even holiday gatherings. Listening to and praying for her and her kids can also help lift her burden.